Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Since its debut in 1959, Disneyland’s Matterhorn Bobsleds has been a cornerstone of the park, known for its thrilling ride and iconic design. As one of the first roller coasters to feature a tubular steel track, it set a new standard for amusement parks.
But the attraction is more than just a groundbreaking ride—it also once featured live-action climbers scaling the mountain, adding an extra element of excitement and realism. However, this unique feature was removed decades ago, sparking curiosity about why it disappeared and whether it might ever return.
A Quick History of Disney’s Matterhorn Bobsleds
The Matterhorn was not only the first major thrill ride at a Disney park but also the first roller coaster to use a tubular steel track, revolutionizing the amusement industry. Inspired by the real Matterhorn mountain in Switzerland, the ride captured Walt Disney’s vision of combining natural beauty with an immersive, adrenaline-pumping experience. It quickly became a symbol of innovation at Disneyland.
Credit: Disney
Originally, the ride featured live-action climbers scaling the mountain’s slopes. These climbers weren’t just any ordinary cast members; they were skilled professionals dressed in mountaineering gear, performing daring ascents throughout the attraction. Characters like Mickey and Donald occasionally joined in on the climb, adding a whimsical touch to the adventure.
This element of realism made the Matterhorn even more exciting for guests. In fact, Mickey Mouse famously climbed to the peak in 2005 to plant a flag in honor of Disneyland’s 50th anniversary, cementing the climbers as an iconic part of the experience.
When your friend’s dad was a @Disneyland Mountain Climber back in the day…
#disneyland #castmember #matterhorn
When your friend’s dad was a @Disneyland Mountain Climber back in the day…#disneyland #castmember #matterhorn pic.twitter.com/169v25wpmt
— exploring The Disney World (@DisneyExploring) October 11, 2021
Why Did Disney Axe the Climbers?
However, in the early 1970s, the climbers were removed from the Matterhorn – a decision that still sparks debate among fans. Though they returned briefly for special occasions like the aforementioned 50th anniversary and in 2012 to celebrate a ride renovation, they’ve been absent for over a decade. The big question remains: Why were they removed, and will they ever come back?
While Disney has never provided an official explanation, many point to safety concerns as the primary reason for the climbers’ removal.
matterhorn is on its 65th anniversary and i would just like to remind everyone that in 2005 mickey climbed all the way on top and placed a flag in honor of disneyland’s 50th anniversary
matterhorn is on its 65th anniversary and i would just like to remind everyone that in 2005 mickey climbed all the way on top and placed a flag in honor of disneyland’s 50th anniversary pic.twitter.com/hbLKbcWmLC
— caitlin 𐂂 (@WEDenterprise) June 14, 2024
“Climbers would accidentally drop harness clips and other climbing tools sometimes (never on purpose), and this became a hazard for the ride, as the fallen objects would sometimes land on the tracks, creating a safety issue for the attraction itself,” one Reddit user shared.
Others echoed similar thoughts, with one commenter saying, “I asked about them when I was last at Disneyland, and the Cast Member on Matterhorn said they stopped climbing because too many people got hurt.”
Credit: Disney
The cost of insurance also allegedly (and understandably) played a role in the decision. “My uncle was an attorney for the insurance firm that represented Disneyland employees. They deemed the mountain climbing to be too dangerous and wouldn’t cover any injuries sustained from it, so Disney stopped doing it,” shared one user.
Despite the absence of its climbers, Matterhorn Bobsleds remains a standout feature of the park, offering guests an unforgettable experience, even without its live-action climbers. Whether or not they will ever return is uncertain, but the legacy of this unique aspect of the attraction still holds a special place in the hearts of Disneyland fans.
Do you miss the Matterhorn climbers?
